Building a Family and a Community at Country Day

When Lauren and Todd Schwartz relocated from San Francisco to Cincinnati in the fall of 2020 with three young boys, they were searching for more than just a school. They were looking for community.

“Although Todd is from California, I’d always heard great things about Country Day, growing up in the area,” says Lauren. “My sister played soccer in high school through select teams, and ultimately at the University of Cincinnati with Country Day grads, and they always had a reputation for being kind and grounded. So, when we moved back to be closer to my family, Country Day was already on our radar.”

From day one in the Pre-Primary program, Lauren says the family felt at home. “We just fell in love with the people here. It wasn’t just about academics, it was about how well our children were known, nurtured, and celebrated. The quality one-on-one time for things like learning to read just blew us away. Another thing that other schools didn’t have like Country Day does is the nature program. Kids get to do what they should be doing – getting dirty, exploring the world around them, playing outside in the elements. It’s such an important layer of education.”

Now with children ranging from Pre-KI  to second grade, the family is deeply engaged in school life. Lauren is serving as the Pre-KI parent rep for the Parents’ Association this year and, as a member of the Centennial gala committee, is already helping plan the school’s biggest party. “Volunteering is such a natural way to give back. It keeps me connected, helps me get an even better understanding about what’s going on at school, and brings me closer to other parents. I’m excited to contribute in any way I can.”

As donors, the couple sees giving as a continuation of that commitment. “We’ve chosen this school to help us raise our kids. So, to us, being involved – whether it's time, energy, or financial support – feels like a partnership. This is our team.”

Country Day’s individualized approach to education has only deepened their connection. “It’s not one-size-fits-all. Our kids are very different, and each one is truly known by their teachers. That’s powerful,” says Lauren. “From the nature program to fourth-grade buddies, to chess tournaments where kindergartners play with seniors – it’s learning in real-world ways where differences are highlighted positively.”

Coming from the Bay Area, Lauren says it’s nice to see a school that is not waiting for other schools to take the lead and appreciates how the school stays ahead of the curve. “From cutting-edge tech partnerships in the ‘90s to bold policies today, like the cell phone guidelines, Country Day leads with thoughtfulness. They do the research, they take a stand, and it’s all about doing what’s best for the kids.”

For the couple, Country Day is more than a school. “It’s a second home. Every fall, it feels like we’re coming back to family."